On Wednesday, the Phoenix City Council met for a virtual formal meeting to discuss and vote on changes to downtown Phoenix. Residents were allowed to give their opinions before council members voted.
The council voted on the following items:
Enter into Development Agreement with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)
The council approved the notion to begin developing TSMC in Phoenix. TSMC is considered one of the most advanced semiconductor process technologies in the world. The development of this semi-conductor manufacturing campus will provide 1,900 new jobs over the next five years. In a 20-year period, the company is estimated to make $38.2 billion in economic output.
New Chapter 20 to the Phoenix City Code: Office of Accountability and Transparency (OAT)
The council did not approve the Office of Accountability and Transparency Act. This act would monitor or participate in investigations that are brought forth against members of the Phoenix Police Department. Many residents and student activists spoke on this issue during the meeting voicing their concern for the lack of community involvement.
CHECK OUT: Phoenix City Council approve a model civilian review board in policy session
Ballot Sorting System Lease with Runbeck Election Services
The council approved a contract with the Runbeck Election Services to lease equipment for a ballot sorting system that will help count all Early Ballots in general and nation-wide elections.
Robert E Lee Street and Sq*aw Peak Drive Approved to Be Renamed
The council voted to rename Robert E Lee street to Desert Cactus Street and Sq*aw Peak Drive to Piestewa Peak Drive. In recent years, residents have advocated for these name changes as the word “Sq*aw” is a derogatory term used toward Native American women. Residents who are affected by this change will be reimbursed for any additional fees.
RELATED: Current street names under review after petition calls for change
Authorization to Pay Invoices for 2021 Downtown Enhanced Municipal Services District
The council approved the payment of EMSD. This would pay to maintain services for streetscape improvements and maintenance, the Clean Team program, marketing, event promotion, business assistance, etc.
Contact the reporter at jkeese@asu.edu
